Two grants aid Chester, Springfield businesses

Springfield Regional Development Corp. is the recipient of two $15,000 grants to support a pair of economic development projects in the region. The projects involve Drew’s LLC of Chester and Vermont Beer Shapers of Springfield.

The awards were part of the Regional Economic Development Grant Program, administered by the Department of Buildings and General Services. The goal of the program is promote stimulation or retention economic opportunities in the state.

Vermont Beer Shapers recently purchased the business assets of the former Trout River Brewery. The grant will aid the owners in constructing the local brewing operation. The other grant will help Drew’s LLC to install a membrane bioreactor filtration system for the wastewater needs at its facility.

SRDC Executive Director Bob Flint said that the grants would be an important part of projects for job creation and retention. “We appreciate the support from the state for these projects. In one instance, it’s a key part of setting up a new business. The other grant will help to solve a long-standing challenge for an important company in our region,” Flint said.

SRDC serves the 10 towns in Southern Windsor County. To learn more about Springfield Regional Development Corp. and how it can help existing companies as well as those looking to start a business, call 802-885-3061 or email bobf@springfielddevelopment.org.